
The iconic square grid, once synonymous with Instagram’s aesthetic, is officially a thing of the past. In its place, Instagram has rolled out a 4:5 aspect ratio layout for posts on user profiles. This change prioritizes vertical content and aligns more closely with the platform’s push toward full-screen, mobile-first experiences. While this update has left some creators scrambling to adapt, it also presents new opportunities to revamp your feed and keep it visually stunning.
Here’s everything you need to know about the new layout and how to make the most of it.
The 4:5 aspect ratio is taller than the classic square (1:1), offering more vertical space to showcase your photos and videos. For context:
The square grid format displayed posts at 1080 x 1080 pixels.
The new 4:5 layout expands this to 1080 x 1350 pixels, taking up more screen real estate and creating a more immersive experience for users.
While this change affects how posts appear in the grid view, Stories and Reels remain unaffected.
Why Did Instagram Make This Change?
Instagram’s shift to a 4:5 layout is part of its ongoing evolution to stay competitive in the mobile-first era dominated by platforms like TikTok. The taller format naturally aligns with how users hold their phones, ensuring posts are more visually engaging and easier to scroll through.
For creators and brands, this means more space to tell a story, showcase products, or share impactful visuals. However, it also requires rethinking the way content is created to ensure it fits seamlessly into the new format.
If you’re wondering how to adjust to this change without compromising your aesthetic, here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Rethink Your Content Dimensions
Start designing for 1080 x 1350 pixels to optimize for the 4:5 aspect ratio.
Tools like Canva and Adobe Express have pre-set templates for Instagram posts in 4:5, making the transition easier.
2. Check Your Grid Aesthetic
With the taller layout, your grid will appear more dynamic, but it could disrupt previously coordinated aesthetics. To maintain a cohesive look:
Use a consistent color palette across posts.
Plan your feed in advance with tools like Planoly or Later.
3. Crop Strategically
Since the square crop is no longer default, focus on placing key elements of your content within the central portion of the frame. This ensures your visuals remain engaging when viewed in both the grid and full-screen formats.
4. Leverage Vertical Space
The added height is perfect for:
Portrait Photography: Highlight subjects with more breathing room.
Text Overlays: Include bold calls-to-action or quotes without feeling cramped.
Product Shots: Showcase more of your product in one image.
5. Experiment with Carousel Posts
Carousels remain a powerful tool, and the 4:5 format provides extra room to create scroll-worthy storytelling. Use this space to break up your message into digestible parts or showcase multiple angles of a product.
While some may mourn the loss of the square grid, the new layout offers several advantages:
More Impactful Visuals: Taller posts capture attention faster as users scroll.
Enhanced Storytelling: Creators can pack more detail and emotion into a single post.
Mobile Optimization: The format is designed to fit the way users interact with content on their phones.
Challenges to Watch Out For
As with any major change, there are a few hurdles to consider:
Adjusting Older Content: Posts optimized for 1:1 might not translate as well in the new format.
Grid Disruption: Those with tightly curated feeds may need to rethink their layout strategies.
Time for Redesign: Creators and brands will need to allocate more time to optimize visuals.
Audit Your Existing Content: Archive older posts that no longer align with the new layout.
Embrace Vertical Video: Reels and Stories dominate engagement, and the 4:5 format is another step toward vertical-first content.
Use Analytics: Monitor performance metrics to understand how your audience is responding to the new format.
Stay Creative: This is an opportunity to stand out. Don’t be afraid to experiment with bold designs and new ideas.
By adapting quickly and rethinking your content strategy, you can leverage this change to your advantage—and maybe even set new trends along the way.
Ready to embrace the 4:5 revolution? Start creating and make your mark!
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